What's eating my bergeranthus multiceps?

Bergeranthus multiceps, a clumping South African mesemb with strap-like leaves, is most troubled by mealybugs hiding in its dense tufts and crowns. Spider mites and root mealybugs are secondary concerns. Fungus gnats can colonize if compost-rich or overly moist soil is used. Keep soil lean and gritty to minimise most pest pressure.

White woolly masses in leaf axils or at the base of leaf tufts; yellowing or wilting of affected growth Dab colonies with isopropyl alcohol; spray whole plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap; repeat weekly until clear

Unexplained stunting or decline; white wax visible on roots and potting mix when plant is removed Unpot, remove all soil, rinse roots, treat with systemic insecticide, repot in clean dry gritty mix

Stippled silver patches on strap leaves; fine webbing especially visible on new growth; worse in heated dry rooms Wipe leaves with a damp cloth, then spray with insecticidal soap; increase airflow and lower the growing temperature if possible